ISLAMABAD: The Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS) has strengthened its focus on nanotechnology and advanced scientific research as part of broader efforts to promote innovation, technological development and sustainable growth in Pakistan and the Global South.
Nanotechnology, which involves manipulating matter at the atomic and molecular scale, typically between one and 100 nanometres, is increasingly being applied in medicine, renewable energy, electronics, agriculture, and environmental protection and advanced manufacturing.
Recognising the strategic importance of the emerging field, COMSATS has invested in scientific infrastructure and research facilities under the leadership of Executive Director Ambassador Dr Mohammad Nafees Zakaria, who assumed office in November 2022.
A key development during his tenure has been the establishment and operationalisation of an ISO 9001-certified NanoTech Laboratory, providing advanced research facilities for doctoral scholars, scientists and technology professionals.
The laboratory is expected to facilitate research in areas including advanced materials, nano-medicine, environmental sciences, electronics and energy technologies. Access to sophisticated analytical facilities can help researchers examine materials at microscopic and molecular levels and develop technologies to address national and global challenges.
The ISO 9001 certification is also significant for ensuring quality management, consistency and reliability in laboratory operations. Internationally recognised quality standards can strengthen confidence in research processes and facilitate collaboration with universities, research institutions and other scientific organisations.
Beyond infrastructure, the initiative reflects COMSATS’ broader emphasis on developing human resources and strengthening Pakistan’s scientific ecosystem. Young researchers with access to modern laboratories can undertake advanced research, pursue doctoral studies and contribute to internationally competitive scientific work.
Under Ambassador Dr Zakaria’s leadership, COMSATS has also sought to strengthen partnerships with national and international institutions in emerging fields, including biotechnology, genomics, renewable energy, electric vehicle technologies and digital innovation.
The NanoTech Laboratory is also expected to contribute to interdisciplinary research. Nanotechnology has applications across multiple sectors, making collaboration between scientists from different disciplines essential for translating laboratory research into practical technologies.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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